False and misleading narratives about flu vaccines have fueled online debate in recent weeks. During a Senate confirmation hearing, the CDC director nominee avoided directly answering questions about promoting flu vaccines for children, saying only that she would “always protect our children.” The response drew criticism from health experts and online commenters. Meanwhile, vaccine opponents expressed skepticism about the nominee because of her apparent support for mRNA technology.
Days earlier, a high-profile vaccine opponent claimed that a 2023 study linked adult vaccination to a higher risk of dementia, a claim that was amplified online by a former U.S. congressperson. However, the referenced study is the only major study to report a small increase in dementia risk associated with flu vaccination. The researchers attributed the finding to other factors, including the likelihood that people who receive recommended vaccinations are more likely to be screened for conditions such as dementia.
Recommendation
Misleading claims from high-profile figures may increase uncertainty about the safety and importance of flu vaccination. Health communicators may note that major medical organizations, including the American Lung Association and American Heart Association, recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months of age and older to reduce the risk of influenza. Messaging may emphasize that influenza can cause severe illness, even in children and otherwise healthy adults, and that vaccination helps protect against infection, severe illness, serious complications, and death.
Fact-checking sources: AAP, Public Good News
Communication resources: Share this fact sheet on the flu and flu vaccine
